The Importance Of Being Earnest

What is The Importance of Being Earnest about?

Oscar Wilde's most celebrated comedy follows two gentlemen, Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, who both maintain fictitious identities to escape their social obligations. Jack pretends to have a wayward brother called Ernest when he visits London, while Algernon invents an invalid friend called Bunbury to avoid unwanted engagements. Complications arise when both men decide to be christened Ernest to win the hearts of the women they love, who are both determined to marry no one who is not called Ernest.

Why see The Importance of Being Earnest?

This is simply one of the funniest plays ever written in the English language. Wilde's wit is as sharp today as it was in 1895, and every line sparkles with epigrams that audiences quote for days afterwards. The play is a perfect introduction to classic theatre for anyone who has never seen a play before, and for regular theatregoers it remains endlessly rewatchable. London productions attract exceptional casts and the play's satirical examination of Victorian manners feels remarkably contemporary.

Practical information for visitors

The Importance of Being Earnest is regularly revived in London's West End and at the National Theatre. Check current listings for the latest production, venue, and availability. The play is suitable for all ages from about 12 upwards, with a running time of approximately two hours and fifteen minutes including an interval. It makes an excellent first theatre experience for visitors to London.

Similar shows you might enjoy

For more classic comedy, explore A Midsummer Night's Dream for Shakespeare's wit, The Play That Goes Wrong for modern farce, or Present Laughter for Noel Coward's equally brilliant comic voice.